Florence

Italy·Europe

Currency

EUR

Language

Italian

Timezone

Rome

Continent

Europe

Our guide

Discover Florence

Florence is small and holds more art per square metre than any city in Europe. Santa Maria del Fiore and Brunelleschi's dome, finished in 1436 without central scaffolding, command everything. The Uffizi holds Botticelli and Leonardo, the Accademia holds Michelangelo's David, and the Ponte Vecchio, lined with goldsmiths' shops, has crossed the Arno since 1345.

When to go

April to May, September to October. Summer is stifling and the Uffizi queues become unreasonable. Winter is cool but bright, and the city becomes liveable again — the best season for the museums.

Getting around

Everything is on foot: the historic centre crosses in twenty minutes and most of it is pedestrian. Buses mainly matter for the climb to Piazzale Michelangelo and the classic view over the city — though walking up takes only half an hour.

Where to eat

Bistecca alla fiorentina is ordered by weight and served rare, without discussion. Lampredotto, a tripe sandwich sold in the street, is the real Florentine snack. The upstairs floor of the central market gathers thirty-odd counters of uneven quality but useful hours.

Good to know

Book the Uffizi and the Accademia online; waiting on the day runs to hours in season. Seven halal addresses are listed. Climb the dome if your knees allow — 463 steps and no lift.

Smart Planning